A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine offers a primary treatment for sleep apnea, a condition that disrupts breathing during sleep. Many CPAP devices include a humidifier that adds moisture to the pressurized air, which helps alleviate common side effects like dry nose or throat. The humidifier works by warming water in a chamber, allowing the air to pick up moisture before it reaches the user’s airways. Using the correct type of water in this humidifier is important for both the longevity of the machine and the user’s health.
The Recommended Water Type
Distilled water is recommended as the only suitable water type for CPAP humidifiers. This recommendation stems from distilled water’s purity, free from minerals, chemicals, and other contaminants. The distillation process involves boiling water and then condensing the resulting steam back into liquid, effectively leaving impurities behind. This process prevents the accumulation of mineral deposits within the CPAP machine’s humidifier chamber, which can impede performance and shorten lifespan. Using distilled water also reduces health risks by ensuring clean, pure moisture is delivered into the respiratory system.
Understanding Sterile Water and Its Suitability for CPAP
Sterile water is treated to remove all living microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. While it is free of these biological contaminants, sterile water may contain inorganic substances or minerals. This distinguishes it from distilled water, which is purified to remove both organic and inorganic impurities. Although sterile water is safer than tap water due to its lack of microorganisms, it may still contain minerals that can lead to buildup in a CPAP humidifier over time. Therefore, while it may be used temporarily, it is not optimal for long-term CPAP use, as mineral accumulation can still occur.
Why Other Water Types Are Problematic
Using water types other than distilled water in a CPAP humidifier can lead to problems. Tap water, even if safe for drinking, contains minerals like calcium and magnesium, as well as chlorine and other chemicals. When heated in a humidifier, these minerals do not evaporate and instead accumulate as scale or white dust, damaging the machine and promoting microbial growth. Tap water can also harbor bacteria and other microorganisms that, when aerosolized, can be inhaled and cause respiratory infections.
Bottled drinking water, including purified or spring water, is not recommended. While often free of bacteria, these waters can still contain dissolved minerals that will leave deposits in the humidifier. Purified water, though treated to remove many impurities, may retain trace minerals, making it less ideal than distilled water for CPAP use. Even boiling tap water, while it kills microorganisms, does not remove these minerals, meaning mineral buildup will still occur.
Consequences of Using Incorrect Water
Using incorrect water types in a CPAP machine can lead to mechanical damage and health risks. Mineral buildup, or limescale, can clog the humidifier, reduce heating efficiency, and shorten the machine’s lifespan. This accumulation can also damage humidifier components, leading to wear and deterioration that may void the warranty. Many CPAP devices sent for repair show problems from mineral deposits due to improper water use.
Beyond machine damage, there are health implications for users. When water containing minerals, chemicals, or microorganisms is used, these substances can become aerosolized and inhaled directly into the respiratory system. Inhaling these impurities can cause respiratory irritation, inflammation, and increase the risk of infections from certain pathogens. Symptoms can range from dry nose and throat to more serious conditions resembling pneumonia, including shortness of breath and chest pain.